The township was formed in 1975 through the amalgamation of East Nissouri, West Zorra and North Oxford townships. The largest communities in Zorra include Embro, Harrington, Harrington West, Kintore, Lakeside, Thamesford and Uniondale.

Demographics

In 2006, the population of Zorra was 7,589. Over 75% of Zorra’s population is under 55 years of age, indicating that the majority of the population is readily available to enter the workforce.

Economy

The Township of Zorra has a diversified economy, with the majority of businesses in the agricultural, construction, retail trade and transportation industries.

The major industries in Zorra include:

·Agriculture

·Retail Trade

·Professional, Scientific and Technical Services

·Construction

·Transportation and Warehousing

Education

There are many post-secondary training opportunities available within close proximity to Zorra to help residents meet the needs of the community. This includes a satellite campus of Fanshawe College in Woodstock, and Conestoga College in Ingersoll. Zorra is close to many of Ontario’s top post-secondary schools located in Brantford, Guelph, London and Waterloo.

A large proportion of Zorra residents have post-secondary education, predominantly from an apprenticeship/trade certificate or diploma, or from a college certificate or diploma.

Education Level, Ages 15 +

Zorra

Zorra %

Ontario %

No certificate, diploma or degree

1645

25%

22%

High school certificate or equivalent

1815

28%

27%

Apprenticeship or trades certificate of diploma

575

9%

8%

College, CEGEP or other non-university certificate or diploma

1500

23%

18%

University certificate or diploma below the bachelor level

195

3%

4%

University certificate, diploma or degree

820

13%

21%

Source: Statistics Canada Community Profiles, 2006

Labour Force

Zorra is home to a multi-skilled labour force. Compared to the provincial average, Zorra has a high number of workers in agricultural based industries, as well as construction, manufacturing and wholesale trade.

Experienced Labour Force, Ages 15 +

Zorra

Zorra %

Ontario %

Agriculture and other resource-based industries

855

17%

3%

Construction

335

7%

6%

Manufacturing

840

17%

14%

Wholesale trade

275

6%

5%

Retail trade

385

8%

11%

Finance and real estate

205

4%

7%

Health care and social services

410

8%

9%

Educational services

335

7%

7%

Business services

720

14%

20%

Other services

620

12%

18%

Source: Statistics Canada Community Profiles, 2006

Access to Major Markets

Zorra is accessible by highway, air and railway. The settled areas are a short drive from Highway 401, 402 and 403.

Zorra is located near several airports, including the Region of Waterloo Airport, Hamilton International Airport, London International Airport and Toronto Pearson International Airport.

The township also has access to the Canadian Pacific and Canadian National Rail Line.